Montreal - permit needed for street busking. No amplifiers or percussion ("Spoonman" being an exception - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7B6BRfQoxLw ). Place Jacques-Cartier is a restricted area. Metro - (optional - but encouraged) permit and audition needed from a "union" of Metro performers. You can only perform in authorized areas in Metro stations. At the opening time of the Metro (5:30 am), potential performers fill out schedules at the most desireable locations (the schedule is always tucked behind the "authorized area" sign, so it can be modified). Less desireable locations often have time slots available throughout the day. Members of the "union" have priority, but non-members might be able to find a spot.